Central Intelligence Agency

American  

noun

1. CIA.

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Central Intelligence Agency British  

noun

1. See CIA

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Central Intelligence Agency Cultural  

1. An agency of the United States government, responsible for coordinating information-gathering activities outside the United States in the interest of national security. The CIA works with the Department of State and a variety of civilian and military organizations to protect American interests abroad and recommend directions for American foreign policy.

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The operations of the CIA are directed by the National Security Council.

The extreme secrecy of many of the CIA's operations has enhanced its reputation as an organization of espionage and intrigue.

Example Sentences

After leaving the US Army, Kent served as a paramilitary officer in the Central Intelligence Agency.

From Barron's • Mar. 17, 2026

Working at the Central Intelligence Agency in the post-9/11 era, I had long worried about Iran and the possibility that a U.S. misstep would spark chaos.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 22, 2026

Rubio began to meet regularly with Miller, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe and Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, to discuss the potential military operation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 7, 2026

The analysis by the Central Intelligence Agency was briefed to President Trump and shared with a small circle of senior administration officials, according to two of the people.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 5, 2026

Two stern-faced men identified themselves as agents of the Central Intelligence Agency.

From "Fallout: Spies, Superbombs, and the Ultimate Cold War Showdown" by Steve Sheinkin